Longway Tavern opens in French Quarter

In the 1920s, the home of writer Roark Bradford and his wife Mary Rose was known to many artists in New Orleans as a place where they could wind down with a drink or a snack — a last stop before heading home for the evening. Writers Ernest Hemingway and William Faulkner were known to knock on the door of 719 Toulouse St. in search of good company, spirits and sustenance.

That building now is home to Longway Tavern (www.longwaytavern.com), the latest project from Robert LeBlanc and Liam Deegan, who also are partners at the Lower Garden District whiskey haunt Barrel Proof. LeBlanc also runs Cavan, Meauxbar and Sylvain.

The renovated Toulouse Street space, which dates back to 1794, sits between Bourbon and Royal streets and features a bar and seating inside and a courtyard in the rear. The spot is helmed by John Sinclair and Deegan (pictured), two longtime employees of the LeBlanc + Smith restaurant group. Deegan was Barrel Proof's managing partner when it opened. Sinclair, a Coquette alum, designed the kitchen program at Barrel Proof.